MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL. Countries in Asia, which reference the Lunar calendar, celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival (also often called the Moon Festival) and consider it one of the most important celebrations of the year and time for families. If you want to explore further, head to the San Francisco Bay Area to celebrate and taste mooncakes.
Children’s Book Recommendation: Thanking the Moon by Grace Lin. You can find videos and activities that accompany the book on the author’s website at gracelin.com/thanking-the-moon/ .
EL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS. Day of the Dead is commonly celebrated in Mexico across multiple days. While Disney’s popular movie Coco might be an introduction to the Day of the Dead for families, dig deeper into the traditions and meaning with your family. It also offers an opportunity to talk with your children about death in a way that celebrates and honors family members who have passed. Check our article on page 34-35 for local celebrations..
Book Recommendation: I Remember Abuelito: A Day of the Dead Story / Yo Recuerdo a Abuelito: Un Cuento del Día de los Muertos by Janice Levy. This bilingual book shares traditions while at the same time focusing on honoring family members who have passed.
DIWALI. Celebrated in India, Diwali (the celebration of the festival of lights) is one of the biggest celebrations of the year and lasts for five days. While each day has a different celebration, there is a focus on family. National Geographic Kids has a great overview of Diwali to read as a family (kids.nationalgeographic.com/pages/article/diwali).
Children’s Book Recommendation: Amma, Tell Me About Diwali! By Bhakti Mathur. The author has an “Amma Tell Me” series if you want to learn more about other Hindu festivals or deities.